Bi-directional Torso Exercise Apparatus with Pivoting Sub-frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torso exercise machines are limited to unidirectional movements, failing to fully engage and develop complex muscle groups involved in multi-dimensional torso movements, such as bending, twisting, and abdominal exercises, due to their design which restricts movements to a single plane.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional exercise apparatus with a main frame, adjustable seat, and interconnected sub-frames that allow pivotal movement about horizontal and vertical axes, providing adjustable resistance through weights, enabling exercises that target oblique, abdominal, and erector muscles from multiple directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional unidirectional torso exercise machines are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the muscle groups cannot be fully exercised as movements are confined to a single plane
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a second pivotal axis (vertical axis) in addition to the traditional horizontal axis, enabling bi-directional torso movements. This dimensional change allows the torso to rotate and bend in multiple directions simultaneously, engaging oblique, abdominal, and erector muscles more comprehensively while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure through the use of two interconnected pivotal frames.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-dimensional exercise movements are implemented, then muscle engagement is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple pivotal axes and interconnected sub-frames
Solution Approach 1:
The machine is divided into separate functional modules: a first sub-frame for horizontal pivotal movement, a second sub-frame for vertical pivotal movement, and a handle assembly for user input. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while contributing to the overall bi-directional exercise capability, making the complex multi-dimensional movement system more manageable and manufacturable.
3Productivity
If adjustable resistance weights are added, then exercise effectiveness is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance mechanism uses simple gravity-based weights that can be independently adjusted by the user without requiring complex control systems. The weight arm can be positioned to extend to the rear for forward torso bending exercises or to the front for back extension exercises, allowing users to self-adjust resistance levels according to their exercise needs while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables comprehensive, bidirectional torso exercises that effectively engage and develop the oblique, abdominal, and erector muscles, offering a more natural and versatile workout experience by allowing movements that are not confined to a single plane, thereby improving muscle strength and overall conditioning.
Implementation Method 1
Adjustable resistance is provided for exercise movements by incremental addition of weights to an arm extending from the first sub-frame
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for bi-directional torso exercise movements has a main-frame base with a seat and upwardly extending columns at either side to support a “U” shaped first sub-frame, mounted so that it pivots about a horizontal first axis passing above the seat, and a second sub-frame mounted to the first sub-frame cross bar for pivotal movement about a second axis generally perpendicular to the horizontal first axis and thereby, mounted for pivotal movement about both axes. A motion transfer linkage is provided to force simultaneous pivotal movement of both sub-frames when either is moved, so as to involve compound muscle groups in an exercise movement.